Bothell police have new crime-fighting tools to assist them on the streets, “RAD” Power Bikes.
They are electric-powered bikes made by a company in Ballard.
The Bothell Police Department reportedly purchased two bikes. Their biggest benefits are said to be their power and speed. They can go a lot faster than normal bikes and officers aren’t as winded when they get to their destinations.
KIRO 7 found out the cost of the bikes were about $1,700 apiece and their batteries have to be replaced every few years, but the bikes have already proven beneficial in search and rescue operations.
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According to the Bothell Reporter, a bike was used to help find a lost child at a fun run event. Another case involved a gentleman with dementia.
Another reported benefit of the bikes is their pedal-assist system that allows the silent electric motor to kick in when the rider starts pedaling.
And because the motor is silent, it is reportedly a tactical advantage.
As to when BPD plans to purchase more, no exact date was given.
Bothell is not the only police department with electric bikes. Other agencies in Western Washington have also purchased them.